Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial Signage

Welcome to the Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial

A few things to keep in mind while in the space…

1. Mindful Movement: Walk gently and mindfully to avoid disrupting others' moments of reflection.

2. No Climbing: To preserve the garden's beauty and integrity, please refrain from climbing on plants, sculptures, and seating areas.

3. Photography: Feel free to take photos for personal use, but please be respectful of othersʼ privacy and avoid capturing individuals without their consent.

About the Memorial

The sculpture in the center of this space honors Xana Kernodle, Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, and Maddie May Mogen.

As you move around the sculpture, observe how the light dances across the panels.

Standing at the dedicated name plates, you can identify colorful panels associated with each individualʼs name.

The panels portray the vibrancy that these students brought to our Vandal community and speaks to the lights they were to those around them.

Should You Feel the Need at Any Time, Please Reach Out

University of Idaho Counseling and Mental Health Center

Mary Forney Hall, 3rd Floor

Monday - Friday

(208)-855-6716 (Select option #3 in the evenings and weekends for assistance) File a Vandal CARE report at uidaho.edu/vandalcare if you are concerned about someone 24/7 Suicide Hotline Call 988

Grief and Healing

In our community, grief finds solace in unity.

Together as Vandals, we draw strength from shared values, evolving from a student body into a family bound by deep connections. The Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial embodies this bond, offering a space for personal rituals of remembrance. Here, intimate reflections and shared moments foster security and ignite hope on our campus.

A Space for Sharing and Reflection

Choose a votive Write your thoughts Roll note and place in votive Return to the wall

The Beacon

Author and alumni Rafe Gibbs wrote a book in 1962 that described the University of Idaho as a “Beacon for Mountain and Plain”. Inspired by this vision, the Beacon stands as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for everyone on campus, honoring all the Vandals who didn't have the opportunity to graduate. Standing at the northern edge of the Shattuck arboretum, it radiates light, reminding us that each individual matters as a part of the interconnected whole.

Colors inspired by Moscowʼs landscapes adorn the garden: a visual celebration of the regionʼs beauty.

Feel the warmth of the sun and the cool breeze. Note the changes in light and temperature as you move throughout the garden.

Note how the sights, smells, and sounds of the garden change during the seasons.

How has the garden changed since you were last here?